Paris: French President Emmanuel Macron on Monday celebrated a significant agreement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy regarding Ukraine's acquisition of 100 Rafale fighter jets, marking what he described as a "new step" in the bilateral partnership between the two nations. Macron's comments were made during a joint press conference with Zelenskyy at the Elysee Palace.

According to Anadolu Agency, the announcement followed the signing of a Declaration of Intent on Cooperation in the Acquisition of Defense Equipment for Ukraine at the Villacoublay military airport in France's Yvelines department. The agreement allows Ukraine to procure various military equipment from France, including 100 Rafale F4 aircraft by 2035, SAMP/T air-defense systems, air-defense radars, air-to-air missiles, and aerial bombs.

Macron emphasized that this deal signifies both an immediate and long-term strengthening of defense cooperation between the two countries, with commitments to deliver drones, drone interceptors, and guided bombs by the end of the year and over the next three years. He reiterated the commitment to support Ukraine in defending itself and enhancing its military capabilities.

In addition to the defense agreement, Macron highlighted a £475-million ($550-million) contract between French company Alstom and the Ukrainian Railway Company, UZ, for the supply of 55 locomotives. The financing for this contract is supported by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the World Bank. Macron also mentioned an intergovernmental agreement to bolster cooperation in strategic sectors such as energy, transport, water, and defense.

The French President underscored the importance of deploying a reassurance force to secure Ukrainian sovereignty and deter further Russian aggression. He expressed optimism that the united efforts of Europe, the US, and other key partners could yield significant results and hoped for peace to be achieved before 2027.

Finally, Macron reiterated the EU's commitment to providing Ukraine with long-term financial support and acknowledged the challenges Ukraine will face on its path to EU integration. He expressed confidence in Ukraine's ability to implement necessary reforms and affirmed France's support for a strong, democratic Ukraine integrated into the European Union.